Winning Time: Aufstieg der Lakers-Dynastie

1980. As the Lakers' post-victory season begins, a laser-focused Jerry Buss shores up his all-star roster and his relationship with his children. Later, a catastrophic injury threatens the team's chance at defending their title.

Als Earvins Rückkehr das neue „System“ der Lakers bedroht, drängen Pat Riley und Jerry West auf einen riskanten Handel. Während Coach Westhead für sein Team kämpft, gerät Jeanie mit ihren Brüdern aneinander, und ein melancholischer Buss versucht, eine Figur aus seiner Vergangenheit zu umwerben.

In den 1970er Jahren wehrt der Studienabbrecher Larry Bird Angebote von Bill Hodges aus Indiana State ab — und später von Red Auerbach, Cheftrainer der Celtics. Zu Beginn der Saison '81/82 drängt Earvin Buss zu einem langfristigen Engagement, während Coach Westhead bei einem wichtigen Schachzug alles riskiert.

After Earvin’s record-setting contract reaches the press, resentments flair in the locker room - and extend to the court. As the Lakers fight for their standing in the league, Buss looks to take his relationship with Honey to the next level, while Pat questions his role, and Coach Westhead meets with an old friend.

After a final clash between Earvin and Coach Westhead, Buss tasks Jerry West with picking up the pieces. As Honey attempts a heart-to-heart with Jeanie, Buss faces pushback from the press and his Captain. Later, Pat faces his demons and takes control of his team.

Despite taking home another ring, the Lakers face a series of humiliating defeats. While attempting to regroup, Buss fields accusations from Honey, Norm receives devastating news, and Earvin does his best to win Cookie over for good. Then, when a life-changing event alters Kareem’s perspective, a newly united team vies for a shot at taking on the Celtics - and Larry Bird.

As the 1984 NBA Finals begin, tensions between the Lakers and Celtics reach new heights. While Buss fends off a potentially life-altering lawsuit, Claire faces the possibility of yet another bankruptcy, and Jeanie questions her place in professional sports. Later, Earvin and Larry battle to the bitter end of their first Finals face-off.